Nicaraguan Pottery

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How is Nicaraguan Pottery created?

The traditional center of ceramic making in Nicaragua is San Juan de Oriente. There, ceramic pottery is still made today using methods passed down through the generations. Various steps are involved in creating these magnificent works of art:

Local barro, or clay, is hand-dug from the ground and carried back to the workshop. The clay is more readily available from the shores of nearby Laguna de Apoyo where the artisan typically owns a small plot of land. Gravel and impurities are removed from the clay by hand. Sand is added one handful at a time until the clay is the appropriate consistency. The artisan then turns a portion of the clay on a potter's kick-wheel and forms the shape. Straight edged scraps of wood, rags, and a bucket of water are used to smooth and refine the edges. After a short drying period, decorating begins. Glazes are typically added using a non-traditional paintbrush created from an old ink pen (the handle) and a family member’s hair (the brush). When the glaze is dry, the piece is burnished with a hard piece of plastic or smooth stone to create the finished look. Handmade tools made from recycled household objects are then used to create the intricate designs. The finished design is signed by the artist. The piece is left to dry. The amount of time depends on the season and weather. A wood-fueled kiln is used to fire the piece. Pieces are left to burn in the kiln for 10 hours at a low 900 degrees Celsius. Commonly left over night, the artisan must stay up to monitor the firing, add more wood, and ensure the temperature is just right. After cooling for several hours, pieces are removed. Finally, the hand-polished shiny finish is achieved with a dab of shoe polish, a rag, and elbow grease. The entire process takes three to four weeks from start to finish. The result is a unique and treasured piece of ceramic art.

What is the history of Nicaraguan Pottery?

Although history of the region is sparse, archeological evidence shows the practice goes back at least 2,000 years. Early ceramics used the style and technique of the indigenous Nahua people, more popularly associated with the Aztecs.

Over time, the region became known for the design style called “inciso” (incising into partially dried clay). Trade with other peoples, like the Mayan, was common. Nicaraguan ceramics have been found at burial sites throughout Honduras and Costa Rica.

San Juan de Oriente was originally named San Juan de los Platos by the Spanish because of the plates and other pottery made in the region. Tax records indicate the village paid tribute to the Spanish King with pottery. Nicaragua gained independence from Spain in 1821, and the current name of the village was adopted.

In San Juan de Oriente today, nearly all of the families are involved in clay working. The village is approximately ten square blocks. 4,000 of the 5,600 residents are potters. 400 pottery houses line two streets of the village.

How do I maintain these works of art?

Ceramic bowls are glazed on both sides. All glazes are lead free. Pieces glazed on both sides are food and water safe. However, they should not go in the oven, microwave, or dishwasher.

Artisans do not have the facilities to guarantee the other pieces in the collection to be 100% water tight. Vases should be lined or set on a tray, if displayed with fresh flowers.

All Nicaraguan pottery should be wiped clean with a damp cloth or hand washed.

San Juan de Oriente